Five summer travel tips for family road trips

How to avoid tired, cranky kids and make the ride pleasant for all passengers

When taking your family on a road trip this summer, make the most of it by preparing for some on-the-road fun. The road trip can be just as fun as the main destination with the right tricks and tools. Comfort is key when it comes to a family road trip. These five tips can help make the trip more enjoyable for all.

1. Stay hydrated and bring snacks

Sounds simple, but keeping tummies full is a way to avoid cranky kids (adults too!). It’s extremely important that everyone stays hydrated in the summer, so bring lots of water bottles as well. Pack plenty of snacks for the road, so you don’t have to make a pit stop every time someone says they’re hungry.

2. Get your rest

Sleepy, cranky kids can be a nightmare to deal with on a long road trip. If your kids are still at an age where they have naptime, schedule the road trip during their naptime so they can more easily fall asleep in the car.

3. Plan some entertainment

Everyone gets bored when they’re stuck in a car for long periods of time. You don’t want your kids complaining and constantly asking, “Are we there yet?” so keep them entertained with creative games and some travel toys. You can come up with interesting games everyone can play based on the other cars around you and the sights you see alongside the road. Each child can also bring their own travel bag of toys.

4. Make a scrapbook

Making a scrapbook to remember your fun family road trip is something you can work on with the kids. Take pictures of interesting things you see or funny family selfies in the car. Try to pick up a small souvenir like a postcard or sticker at every roadside attraction or gift shop you stop at and include it in your scrapbook. It’s a creative activity to keep the kids entertained and also a great family keepsake at the end of the trip.

5. Bring some electronics

Normally it would be a good idea to put aside your electronic devices to spend more time with the family, but while you’re on the road, having a tablet device and some smartphones can actually help pass the time and provide entertainment. Download some apps before you go like iExit to give you information on gas stations and shops at all different exits. Also bring a few portable car chargers so you can keep the devices juiced up, so they’re always ready for use.